How To Keep Your Car in Top Condition This Summer in Texas

Texas summers are no joke. With temperatures reaching a scorching 100°F and above, your vehicle faces extreme conditions, especially during long commutes in cities like Austin and Houston, where traffic can get heavy. It's not just the heat you have to worry about; the high temperatures put additional strain on your car's engine, tires, air conditioning system, and more. To keep your car running smoothly and safely, it's essential to perform regular summer car maintenance.

Let's dive into a few key areas to focus on, ensuring your car stays in top shape and you can cruise through the Texas heat without a hitch!

1. Check and Top Off All Fluids

One of the most important aspects of summer car maintenance is ensuring all your vehicle's fluids are topped off. Fluids like oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid keep your car operating efficiently and prevent overheating - an issue that can become much more serious during Texas summers.

• Engine oil: Check your oil levels regularly. Low oil levels can lead to overheating and engine damage.
• Coolant: In high temperatures, your car's coolant system works overtime to prevent the engine from overheating. Ensure the coolant is at the right level and replace it if necessary.
• Brake fluid and transmission fluid: Both play a crucial role in your vehicle's performance, especially during stop-and-go traffic. Check these fluids to avoid any issues on the road.
  

For an expert fluid check and top-off, visit Texas Auto Center, where we offer comprehensive cooling system service and fluid maintenance.

2. Inspect the Radiator, Hoses, and Cooling System

Your radiator is the lifeline of your vehicle's cooling system, especially during the hot summer months. If the radiator or cooling system fails, your car is at risk of overheating - leading to costly repairs.

Here's what you should inspect:

• Radiator: Look for any visible signs of leaks or corrosion. If there are any signs of wear, a radiator flush or replacement might be needed.
• Hoses: Inspect all coolant hoses for cracks or leaks. The extreme heat can cause rubber to degrade, which could result in a hose burst.
• Cooling system: If you notice your car is overheating or the air conditioning isn't working well, it's time to get a cooling system maintenance check.
  

Prevent overheating this summer by scheduling a service appointment for your vehicle at Texas Auto Center, where we ensure your car's cooling system is in top working condition.

3. Monitor Tire Pressure and Tread

The hot summer roads, especially in cities like Houston and Austin, can be tough on your tires. Tire pressure fluctuates with the heat, so it's important to check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires can lead to poor fuel efficiency and an increased risk of tire blowouts.

• Tire pressure: Make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended PSI (pounds per square inch). The heat causes tire pressure to rise, so it's crucial to check it regularly.
• Tire tread: Check the tread depth of your tires to ensure they can handle wet roads in case of sudden summer storms. Worn tires can significantly reduce your car's traction, making it dangerous to drive.
  

Don't forget to schedule a tire pressure check to ensure you're safe and ready for any drive.

4. Maintain the Battery

High temperatures can lead to your car's battery draining faster than usual. Hot weather speeds up the chemical reactions in your car's battery, which can lead to internal damage, especially if the battery is already showing signs of wear.

• Inspect battery terminals: Ensure the terminals are clean and free of corrosion. A simple cleaning can improve battery performance.
• Battery health: If your battery is more than three years old, it may be time for a replacement.
  

For a thorough battery inspection and maintenance, let Texas Auto Center check your car's battery and keep it running in optimal condition this summer.

5. Ensure the Air Conditioning System is Working Efficiently

There's nothing worse than driving in 100°F heat without a working air conditioning system. Be sure to get an AC tune-up to keep your cooling system in top form.

• AC performance: Make sure your air conditioning system is blowing cool air. If it's blowing warm air, it may be low on refrigerant, or there may be a malfunction in the system.
• Air filters: Clean or replace your cabin air filters to ensure fresh, cool air is circulating inside your car.
  

Schedule an AC tune-up at Texas Auto Center to ensure your AC system is working as it should all summer long.

6. Protect the Car's Interior and Exterior from Sun Damage

The intense Texas sun can wreak havoc on your car's interior and exterior if you're not careful. Here's how to protect it:

• Exterior protection: Wash and wax your car regularly to protect the paint from fading or oxidizing in the harsh sun. A good wax layer also acts as a protective barrier against dirt and UV rays.
• Interior protection: Use sunshades to protect your dashboard and seats from UV rays. A seat cover can also help preserve the fabric or leather inside.
  

These simple maintenance steps can help keep your car looking new, even under the blazing Texas sun.

7. Prepare an Emergency Kit for Long Trips

Whether you're taking a road trip to San Antonio or just driving across town, it's essential to have an emergency kit prepared. You never know when an unexpected situation might arise, especially during the sweltering summer months.

Your emergency kit should include:

• A spare tire, jack, and lug wrench
• Jumper cables
• First-aid kit
• Water and snacks (especially important in case of a breakdown)
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Basic tools for minor repairs

Before heading out, ensure your vehicle is prepared for any unexpected situation with a well-stocked emergency kit.

Ready for the Road: Upgrade Your Ride for Summer Today

With the Texas heat showing no signs of letting up, it's essential to ensure your car is ready for the season. While summer car maintenance—such as checking your tire pressure, ensuring your AC is working, and keeping your cooling system in top shape—is crucial, it's also the perfect time to consider upgrading to a more reliable vehicle that can handle the heat.

If your current ride isn't quite up to the challenge, Texas Auto Center has a wide selection of used cars perfect for summer driving. Our vehicles are built to perform in tough conditions, and with our flexible financing options, it's easier than ever to get behind the wheel of a car you can count on.

Looking to trade in your current vehicle? We make it easy with an instant trade-in value estimate, so you can see what your car is worth and put that value toward your next purchase. Whether you have perfect credit or less-than-perfect credit, we’re here to help with financing that fits your budget. Learn more on our credit page.

Make this summer your best one yet with a vehicle that’s ready for the road ahead. Visit Texas Auto Center today!